If you're lucky enough to be enjoying this very warm summer day at one of the state's beautiful beaches, don't be tempted to take a dip in the ocean to cool off. Dangerous swimming conditions are likely at most of North Carolina's beaches today.

What You Need To Know

  • At least 10 rip current rescues were reported Monday

  • There's another moderate to high rip current risk today

  • The threat can be most dangerous within a couple hours of low tide

Lifeguards at Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach reported at least 10 rip current rescues Monday.

There's another moderate to high risk for more rip currents for the entire coast today.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water that can pull even experienced swimmers away from the shore.

The dangerous swimming conditions could happen at anytime today, but the greatest danger will be within a couple hours of low tide. The next low tide for most beaches will be around 6 p.m.

If you're caught in a rip current, you should not panic. Lifeguards recommend swimming parallel to the shore until you break free from the current. Then swim back toward the shore at an angle.